Traffic Tip: Turning at intersections

This week's traffic tip is in regards to Texas Transportation Code 545.101, Turning At Intersections. This code specifically addresses problems observed at Mockingbird Lane and John Stockbauer Drive.

545.101. Turning at intersection. (a) To make a right turn at an intersection, an operator shall make both the approach and the turn as closely as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.

Why this specific code and how does it relate to the above intersection?

The problem at this intersection is happening in the morning rush to get to Victoria East High School. Vehicles are lining up to enter Victoria East in the outside lane of Mockingbird from the school to John Stockbauer. Here is where the problem is: once the line of cars gets to John Stockbauer, the next place to wait is on John Stockbauer. Vehicles then either wait in the left turn lane, facing south in front of Wienerschnitzel, or they wait in the outside lane, facing north, waiting to turn right. At times this line of cars extends past Goldenrod Street near the car wash on John Stockbauer.

The main problem is that some impatient drivers who feel they should not have to wait in the line like everyone else are passing up the line on the inside lane and turning right onto Mockingbird from that lane. This is not only very unsafe, it is also illegal.

It is understandable that people want to get where they are going in a timely manner. However, laws should not be broken nor innocent persons put in danger to accomplish this.

The proper thing to do to avoid this congestion issue is to find other routes to get where you're going, leave a little earlier, or just be patient. The congestion this past week has subsided rather quickly; usually within 15 minutes.

The Victoria Police Department Traffic Safety Unit invites citizens to inform us of any traffic issues that you observe. The easiest way to do this is go to our website, victoriapd.com, then go to the VPD Customer Service Request tab in the center of the page and follow the directions.

If you have a traffic law question, contact Senior Police Officer David Brogger, Victoria Police Department Traffic Safety Unit, 361-485-3700.